Our Thriving Sector

Ontario has a distinct advantage in the global water market due to its highly competitive water industry and a strong record of establishing water technologies designed to impact the world.

Private and public investment in Ontario’s water infrastructure, technologies, and services is supporting the growth of existing water industry businesses, and it is also fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs developing innovative new solutions.

A centre for water technology innovation and commercialization, Ontario has a highly educated workforce, and the highest percentage of post-secondary education graduation in Canada and among the OECD’s 35-country membership. Ontario is a diverse province, boasting many geographic and demographic advantages that enable easy access to markets in North America and South America, including a highly culturally-diverse population of over 3 million visible minorities.

Canada’s position as a global economic player makes investing in Ontario attractive proposition. International companies seeking a company headquarters in North America will find Ontario ideally situated for doing business worldwide, and international investors will find a strong infrastructure and a wealth of opportunities in Ontario’s thriving water industry. Additionally:

More than 900 water companies are headquartered or operating in Ontario

Approximately 22,000 people are employed in the water sector by Ontario-based companies

Ontario is host to more than 100 water research centres

Water research has received more than $140 million of government grants over the past decade

More than 8,000 students graduate with water-related university degrees annually

This wealth of water-related research, development, and investment in Ontario is spurring the innovations that will help address some of the world’s most pressing water challenges.